Juan Toscano-Anderson’s basketball journey isn’t just one of athletic achievement; it’s a story of survival, resilience, and transformation. In the recently released NBA G League documentary series chronicling his rise, Toscano-Anderson opened up about the hardships that shaped him, including enduring homelessness three times.
Now 31, the Mexico City Capitanes forward is reflective not only about how far he’s come but the lessons he’s learned about life, money, and self-worth.
“When I first started making money, my first year playing pro, I didn’t spend money because I was scared. I was scared to spend money because I’ve been homeless three times, bro. And I’m like, man, I never want to be broke again, ever.”
“But the negative side of that, had I, was if I was educated and financially literate, I would have took that $70,000 and that $70,000 probably would be a million dollars today.”
“If I knew then what I know today, I would have took that money and invested it. I would have spent it on the right things. But what I’ve learned out on 31, like I call my money my paper soldiers. Whenever I, that’s what I call them. Because when I make money, I’m trying to figure out how can you go get me more money?”
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The Oakland native didn’t follow a traditional NBA path. After going undrafted in 2015 out of Marquette, Toscano-Anderson’s route to professional basketball was built on grit and faith. He played overseas in Mexico with Soles de Mexicali and Fuerza Regia before making a name for himself in the G League with the Santa Cruz Warriors.
That effort earned him a chance with the Golden State Warriors, where he eventually carved out a meaningful role, even becoming a fan favorite for his hustle, selflessness, and Oakland roots.
Toscano-Anderson made history during the 2021–22 season by becoming the first player of Mexican descent to win an NBA title, suiting up for the Warriors during their championship run.
Over his five-year NBA career, which included stints with the Warriors, Los Angeles Lakers, Utah Jazz, and Sacramento Kings, he earned approximately $4.7 million, an unimaginable figure for someone who once had no place to sleep.
But while he now has financial stability, the scars of his past have shaped his relationship with money. In the documentary, Toscano-Anderson reflects on those early pro years where fear of returning to poverty governed his decisions.
Today, his mindset has evolved. Now playing with the Mexico City Capitanes in the G League, he views his finances with a sharper lens, not out of fear, but strategy.
Toscano-Anderson’s story resonates far beyond basketball. It’s a testament to perseverance, to never giving up when the odds are stacked against you. It’s also a powerful reminder of the importance of financial literacy for young athletes, especially those who come from underprivileged backgrounds.
For a kid who once had nothing, Juan Toscano-Anderson has made every opportunity count, and now, he’s using his voice to inspire others walking the same rocky road he once traveled.
